A Labour of Love

An ode to the people that keep society ticking.

The binman called Nigel swaggers down the street,
and dances with the bins, which waltz on two feet.
He dreams of one day living the life of a Gatsby,
luxurious bars, boats and clothes, making deals,
being crafty.

But for now his three sons are quite enough,
jostling in the garden, playing sports - when it's
not fun, it's difficult, tough. The bills wash in,
like a tsunami, and he must feed his growing
clan, his familial army.

In the bright orange dress, with the lads at his side,
he spies the horizon for a promising bride. Will
he find them here, on these well trodden streets?
The Maiden of the Recycling...
dejected and saddened, he wants to retreat.

One day Max, with his innocent face, comes home
angry, bitter tears, quickening pace. Violently
he slams the bedroom door. Explains later that
he wishes he wasn't born poor.

For the cruel kids out in the yard tear his dad to shreds
for the rags that he wears. They make fun of his accent,
his job, his pride. The sports team that he coaches,
the fact his 1st wife died.

But Nigel hoists up Max with his toned, long arms,
and explains the dignity of graft, as Max is calmed.
Though Nigel is coarse, he is full of love.
When he's met with hate, he resembles the dove.

"The best response to words, all things told, is to keep
your head down, live your truth, be kind
and be bold."